periapical abscess, an infection around the root of a tooth, usually a result of the spreading of dental caries, leading to pulpal necrosis. Radiographically, the infection will appear radiolucent around the apex of the tooth. The abscess may perforate into the oral cavity or maxillary sinus; extend into nearby bone, causing osteomyelitis; or, more often, spread to soft tissues, causing cellulitis and a swollen face. There may be associated fever, malaise, and nausea. Treatment includes access into the pulp chamber of the tooth to establish drainage and relieve pain, followed by antibiotics and late root canal therapy or tooth extraction. Also called dental abscess, tooth abscess.
